Cricket Mourns Robin Smith, Who Has Died Aged 62.

In the age before the explosive T20 revolution, few could match the cricket ball with more raw power than Robin Smith. Shaped with a prizefighter's frame but possessing the nimble footwork inherited from his mother, a ballet dancer, his shots were unleashed – the square cut in particular – with such immense force they dented in perimeter fencing while crushing bowlers' confidence.

The cricketer's death comes after a prolonged illness, was a man filled with stark contrasts. On the surface, he appeared the embodiment of courageous, aggressive batting, famed for memorable contests with the world's fastest bowlers. Yet, behind this show of machismo lay a deeply insecure individual, a battle he kept hidden during his playing days that subsequently contributed to battles with addiction and mental health issues.

Sheer Bravery Coupled with a Craving for Danger

His courage facing quick bowlers could never be doubted. But the driving force, was a complex blend of innate toughness and a confessed addiction to adrenaline. Many felt he wired differently, seeking out the brutal examination of standing up to thunderbolts, which demanded lightning reflexes and a high tolerance for pain.

This was perfectly illustrated during an iconic undefeated knock of 148 playing for England against the West Indies at Lord's in 1991. In challenging conditions, against the rampant two of the greatest fast bowlers in history, Smith not only survived but thrived, apparently delighting in the physical duel of short balls and fours. He later described that it left him feeling “electrified”.

An Impressive International Career

Playing largely in the middle order, He earned caps for England over 62 Test matches and 71 One-Day Internationals between 1988 and 1996. He amassed over four thousand Test runs averaging 43-plus, featuring nine three-figure scores. In the one-day arena, he compiled 2,419 runs averaging close to 40.

Perhaps his most ferocious knock came in 1993 against Australia against Australia, blasting a brutal 167 runs. It was such a domineering performance that he was reportedly commendations from PM John Major. However, in a frustrating pattern, England still failed to win the game.

His Nickname and Lasting Contradictions

Known widely as ‘The Judge’ because of a youthful haircut resembling a judicial wig, his mean in Test cricket was notably impressive, especially considering his career spanned in a losing era. A common view is his international career was ended somewhat unfairly after a difficult tour in South Africa in 1995-96.

As he later confessed, he existed as a dual personality: ‘Judge’, the arrogant, combative cricketer who loved a fight, and plain Robin, a sensitive, emotional man. These two sides fought for dominance.

His fierce loyalty occasionally led to trouble. Most famously saw him defend West Indian colleague Malcolm Marshall from racist abuse in Leicester. Following unsuccessful appeals, he punched the ringleader, an act that broke his own hand leading to a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Struggles in Retirement

Moving on from the game post-cricket became a huge struggle. The thrill of competition was substituted for the mundane realities of business. Attempts at bat manufacturing eventually failed. Coupled with marital difficulties and mounting debts, he descended into addiction and deep depression.

Emigrating to Western Australia accompanied by his brother Chris provided a new beginning but failed to fix his personal demons. During his darkest hour, he contemplated suicide, only being pulled back from the brink by the support of family and a neighbour.

Robin Smith is survived by his companion, Karin, his two children, and brother Chris.